Cultivating Srada

Srada is a concept in yoga that is focused on belief or faith. Both of those words can often feel a bit charged. My favorite translation of srada is the “opposite of fear”. I have spent many years now with srada as the center of  my meditation and personal practice. 

Focusing on cultivating the opposite of fear in my personal practice has had many iterations. Firstly, it allows me to objectively see the thing I am afraid of. Fear is real. Fear has become weaponized: it seeks to create chaos, disconnection and paralysis. You cannot expect to change what you are feeling if you’re not clear on what you are actually experiencing. 

After some time practicing, it has become very clear what my fears are. This understanding informs next steps: cultivating the opposite of fear. Make those actions into SMART goals (real, specific, and concrete). 

Take a look at a common situation:  I’m so stressed out and anxious because of everything going around me. I’m going to work on being calmer every day. 

An example of what doesn’t work: This goal, although a lovely idea, is not real, specific, or concrete. There is no way to measure this or recognize its achievement. It is less likely to become a sustainable pattern. 

An Example of what works: I’m going to spend 8 minutes four times a week doing a prescribed/guided pranayama. This goal is tangible and real. You will know if you’ve done it or not. It is specific and measurable. It calls on connection from a trusted source increasing support and resources. 

This is just an overview and simplification of an incredibly valuable technique to help you self regulate and improve your overall quality of life!

For more information or guidance, please reach out by booking a free 15 minute call or full consultation with me.